Read this guide all about Moving to South Africa from the UK or any worldwide location.
Advance Moves can save you time and money when it comes to moving to South Africa. We can give you an instant online quick quote for a move to any worldwide location, which is then backed up by up to 5 free quotes from moving companies specially selected from our list of agents and partners to cover your area and requirements. You then have the choice of selecting the mover and quotation that is best for you, saving both time and money in obtaining a competitive removals quotation.
Are you relocating to South Africa from the UK? Whether it’s for work, retirement, lifestyle, or family reasons, South Africa continues to attract thousands of British expats every year. From Cape Town’s stunning coastal views to Johannesburg’s thriving business hub, moving to South Africa offers an exciting new start.
At Advance Moves, we specialise in stress-free, affordable removals to South Africa from the UK. Our unique Quick Quote system allows you to compare prices from multiple international removal companies in minutes — saving you both time and money.
👉 Get Your Free South Africa Removal Quote Today
The cost of moving internationally depends on several factors, including:
The volume of goods you’re shipping
Whether you choose sea freight or air freight
Container size (20ft vs 40ft)
If you opt for shared (groupage) shipping or a dedicated container
Any extra services such as packing, storage, or insurance
20ft Container – £3,500 to £5,000 (ideal for a 2–3 bedroom home)
40ft Container – £6,000 to £9,000 (suitable for larger households or house + car)
Air Freight (1 cubic metre) – £800 to £1,200 (best for urgent or small moves)
💡 Pro tip: Groupage (shared container shipping) is perfect if you only need to move a few items, making it more cost-effective.
👉 Get an Instant Quote for Your Move to South Africa
Most affordable method for full households
Takes around 6–8 weeks depending on port
Available as Full Container Load (FCL) or Shared Container (LCL)
Much faster: typically 7–14 days
Ideal for smaller, urgent shipments or personal effects
More expensive than sea freight
20ft container: typically fits a 2–3 bedroom property
40ft container: suitable for 4–5 bedroom homes or larger moves including vehicles
👉 Unsure which option suits you best? Use our Quick Quote tool for tailored recommendations.
Moving your belongings to South Africa requires compliance with customs regulations. Here’s what you need to know:
Household goods: Usually duty-free if owned and used for more than 12 months
Prohibited items: Firearms, ammunition, fresh food, plants, and some animal products
Restricted items: Alcohol, tobacco, and luxury goods may require duty payments
Vehicles: Cars can be imported, but you’ll need an import permit and must pay duties and VAT. Vehicles must also meet South African compliance standards.
Our team at Advance Moves will guide you through all documentation requirements and connect you with trusted partners to simplify the process.
👉 Start Your South Africa Removal Today
South Africa welcomes pets, but there are strict rules in place:
All pets must be microchipped
Dogs and cats require valid rabies vaccinations
An import permit is mandatory
Quarantine may apply depending on your pet’s vaccination history and travel route
Advance Moves works with experienced pet relocation partners who handle everything from permits to transport, ensuring your furry friend arrives safely.
👉 Request a Quote Including Pet Relocation
When planning your move, location is key. Here are the most popular destinations for UK expats:
Cape Town – Famous for its natural beauty, Table Mountain, wine regions, and international community
Johannesburg – South Africa’s financial and business hub, with strong job opportunities
Durban – Warm, tropical climate with beaches and a slower pace of life
Wherever you decide to settle, Advance Moves can arrange removals directly to your chosen city.
👉 Get a Tailored Moving Quote to Your South African City
Fast online quotes – save hours comparing multiple movers
Trusted network – only work with professional, accredited international removal companies
Full-service options – including packing, insurance, storage, pet relocation, and vehicle shipping
Experience – years of expertise helping UK families and businesses move worldwide
Peace of mind – we simplify customs paperwork and logistics
👉 Compare Prices for Your South Africa Move Now
How much does it cost to move to South Africa from UK?
Expect between £3,500–£9,000, depending on shipment size, method, and destination. Use our Quick Quote tool for accurate pricing.
How long does shipping take to South Africa?
Sea freight takes around 6–8 weeks, while air freight is quicker at 7–14 days.
Can I ship my car to South Africa?
Yes, but it requires permits, duties, and compliance with local regulations. Advance Moves can arrange car shipping as part of your move.
Do I need insurance for my move?
We recommend comprehensive moving insurance to protect your belongings during transit.
If you’re planning an international relocation, let Advance Moves handle the logistics. Our Quick Quote system connects you with the best removal companies for your route, ensuring you get the most competitive price in just minutes.
👉 Get Your Free Quote for Removals to South Africa
When relocating to South Africa, your choice of city can shape your entire experience. Each region has its own unique lifestyle, climate, and opportunities. At Advance Moves, we don’t just help with the logistics of shipping your belongings — we also understand what makes each destination attractive for British expats.
Cape Town is one of the most sought-after destinations for UK expats, and for good reason. Nestled between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, the city offers a perfect balance of urban living and natural beauty.
What expats love about Cape Town:
Stunning beaches, hiking trails, and wine regions right on your doorstep
A strong international community, making it easy to settle in
Excellent schools and healthcare facilities in certain areas
Popular suburbs for expats include Camps Bay, Constantia, and Sea Point
Moving considerations:
Cost of living can be higher than elsewhere in South Africa, especially in premium areas
Shipping typically arrives through the Port of Cape Town with sea freight times of 6–8 weeks
Ideal for retirees, families, and digital nomads
👉 Get a Quote for Removals to Cape Town
Johannesburg, or “Jo’burg,” is South Africa’s largest city and the country’s economic powerhouse. While it doesn’t have Cape Town’s coastal scenery, it offers vibrant culture and strong career opportunities.
What expats love about Johannesburg:
High-paying jobs in finance, IT, and mining industries
Modern housing developments in secure estates
A thriving restaurant, arts, and nightlife scene
Popular expat-friendly suburbs include Sandton, Rosebank, and Fourways
Moving considerations:
Johannesburg is inland, so shipments usually enter via Durban port and continue by road/rail
Transit time for sea freight is typically 6–8 weeks
A great choice for professionals, entrepreneurs, and families seeking urban opportunities
👉 Get a Quote for Removals to Johannesburg
Durban, located on South Africa’s eastern coast, is known for its warm climate, beaches, and laid-back lifestyle. It’s becoming increasingly popular among expats who prefer a more relaxed pace of life.
What expats love about Durban:
Year-round warm weather and access to the Indian Ocean
Affordable cost of living compared to Cape Town or Johannesburg
Outdoor lifestyle with surfing, diving, and nature reserves nearby
Expats often settle in areas like Umhlanga, Ballito, and Durban North
Moving considerations:
Direct access through the Port of Durban makes this one of the fastest and most cost-effective entry points for removals
Sea freight typically takes 6–7 weeks
Great for families, retirees, and those who want a coastal lifestyle
👉 Get a Quote for Removals to Durban
Beyond the “big three,” there are several other areas where British expats choose to settle:
Pretoria – South Africa’s administrative capital, quieter than Johannesburg but still close enough for commuting. Popular with families due to its schools and leafy suburbs.
Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) – A friendly coastal city known for beaches and a slower pace of life. More affordable housing than Cape Town.
Stellenbosch & Cape Winelands – Ideal for those who love wine country living, boutique farms, and small-town charm.
Bloemfontein – Known as the “City of Roses,” it offers a lower cost of living and is popular with families seeking a quieter environment.
No matter your destination, Advance Moves can arrange removals to South Africa from the UK, ensuring your belongings arrive safely and cost-effectively.
👉 Start Your Move to Any South African City Here
Cape Town → Lifestyle, scenery, expat communities, international feel
Johannesburg → Jobs, business, modern housing, urban buzz
Durban → Coastal living, affordability, warm climate
Pretoria → Family-friendly, green suburbs, quieter pace
Port Elizabeth / Gqeberha → Beaches, relaxed lifestyle, affordability
Wherever you’re heading, Advance Moves ensures your relocation runs smoothly.
👉 Get Your Free Instant Quote for Any South Africa Destination
If you’re planning a move to South Africa from the UK, understanding the visa and residency requirements is just as important as arranging your removals. South Africa offers several visa and permit options depending on whether you want to work, study, retire, or invest in the country.
Below is a detailed guide to help you understand the process of becoming a resident in South Africa.
Most UK nationals begin their journey in South Africa with a temporary residence permit. These are usually valid from 1–4 years and can be renewed. Common categories include:
Work Visa – for those offered employment in South Africa
Critical Skills Visa – for applicants with skills listed as essential by the South African government (e.g. engineering, IT, healthcare)
Study Visa – for students enrolling at South African institutions
Business Visa – for entrepreneurs investing in or starting a company
Retired Persons Visa – for retirees with proof of pension or sufficient income
👉 These permits allow you to live legally in South Africa, with the option to later apply for permanent residency.
Once you’ve held temporary residence for a certain period (usually 5 years), you can apply for Permanent Residence (PR). With PR status, you enjoy most of the same rights as citizens, except for voting.
You may qualify for PR sooner if you:
Have a spouse or life partner who is a South African citizen or permanent resident
Hold a Critical Skills Visa and have been employed in that field
Have invested a substantial amount into a South African business
Are a retiree with a guaranteed lifetime income above the required threshold
After holding permanent residence for 5 years, you can apply for citizenship by naturalisation. This allows you to hold a South African passport.
The UK and South Africa both permit dual citizenship, so you can keep your British passport.
Applicants must show proof of residence, integration into South African life, and language proficiency.
When applying for a visa or residency permit, you’ll typically need:
A valid UK passport (minimum 30 days validity after departure, with 2 blank pages)
Medical and radiological reports
Police clearance certificates from the UK (and any country lived in for 12+ months)
Proof of financial means (bank statements, pension proof, or income verification)
Marriage or birth certificates if applying with family
Employment contract, business plan, or university acceptance letter (depending on visa type)
👉 Requirements vary depending on visa type, so it’s wise to work with an immigration consultant in South Africa.
For Professionals: A Critical Skills Visa is often the fastest route, especially for healthcare, IT, or engineering roles.
For Retirees: The Retired Persons Visa is popular among UK expats, requiring proof of monthly income (approx. £1,500+) or lump sum assets.
For Families: Spousal and relative visas allow for easier relocation if joining family already in South Africa.
For Investors & Entrepreneurs: A Business Visa is available for those investing at least R5 million (approx. £220,000) into a South African business, with job creation requirements.
Temporary Residence Visas – Usually processed within 6–12 weeks (depending on visa centre backlogs).
Permanent Residency – Can take 1–2 years for approval.
Citizenship – Requires at least 5 years of permanent residency before applying.
Apply early – processing times in South Africa can be lengthy.
Ensure documents are certified – South African Home Affairs often rejects incomplete paperwork.
Consider legal help – immigration lawyers or relocation consultants can save time and frustration.
Plan your move in stages – secure your visa before booking long-term accommodation.
At Advance Moves, we don’t just handle your removals — we help guide you through the moving process so your relocation to South Africa is stress-free. While we’re not immigration lawyers, our experience helping thousands of expats relocate means we can connect you with the right professionals for visa and residency advice.
👉 Get a Free Quick Quote for Your Move to South Africa
Can UK citizens live in South Africa permanently?
Yes. After holding temporary residence, you can apply for permanent residency and later for citizenship.
How long can a British citizen stay in South Africa without a visa?
UK citizens can visit visa-free for 90 days. For longer stays, you’ll need a residence visa.
Is dual citizenship allowed?
Yes, both the UK and South Africa permit dual nationality.
How much money do I need to retire in South Africa?
You’ll need proof of a monthly pension/income (around £1,500+) or significant savings to qualify for a Retired Persons Visa.
👉 Start Planning Your Move to South Africa – Get a Quick Quote Today
Relocating to South Africa is a big adventure — but like any international move, it comes with challenges as well as rewards. With its stunning landscapes, diverse culture, and lower cost of living, South Africa is one of the most popular destinations for British expats. Whether you’re retiring, relocating for work, or looking for a lifestyle change, careful planning will make your move far smoother.
Here’s our expert advice for moving to South Africa.
Before you pack your bags, it’s important to understand how to legally live in South Africa.
UK passport holders can enter visa-free for 90 days, but anything longer requires a residence visa.
Common options include work visas, critical skills visas, business visas, and retired persons visas.
If you’re planning a long-term move, look into permanent residency, which you can usually apply for after 5 years.
👉 For a detailed breakdown, see our guide: How to Become a Resident of South Africa.
Shipping your household belongings from the UK to South Africa requires early planning.
Sea freight is the most common method, with average transit times of 6–8 weeks.
A 20ft container is enough for a small home or flat, while a 40ft container is better for larger families.
Shared or “groupage” containers can reduce costs if you’re moving fewer items.
Customs clearance requires an inventory of your goods — so pack carefully and keep receipts for high-value items.
👉 Get an Instant Quote for Your Move to South Africa
South Africa is a vast country with very different lifestyles depending on where you live.
Cape Town → Best for scenery, beaches, and international communities. A bit pricier, but very popular with expats.
Johannesburg → The business hub. Ideal for professionals and those seeking career opportunities.
Durban → Coastal city with warm weather and lower living costs. Great for families and retirees.
Pretoria → Quieter, greener, and popular with families who want access to good schools.
Stellenbosch & Winelands → Perfect if you love wine country living and a more rural lifestyle.
South Africa can be far more affordable than the UK, but costs vary by city and lifestyle.
Housing: Expats often find rent significantly cheaper than in London or other UK cities.
Groceries & Dining: Local food is affordable, but imported goods can be pricey.
Healthcare: Good private healthcare is available but requires insurance.
Utilities & Security: Many homes use private security services, which add to monthly costs.
👉 Tip: Open a South African bank account quickly to avoid high international transaction fees.
If you’re moving with children, research schools before you relocate.
South Africa has state, private, and international schools.
International schools (often following British curricula) are popular with expats, but fees can be high.
Admission waiting lists can be long, especially in Cape Town and Johannesburg, so apply early.
You can drive on your UK licence for up to 12 months, after which you’ll need to convert it to a South African licence.
Cars are relatively affordable compared to the UK, but insurance and road conditions vary.
Public transport is limited outside major cities, so most expats own a car.
Safety is often a concern for new expats, but millions live happily in South Africa by taking sensible precautions.
Choose secure accommodation, ideally in a gated community or with private security.
Avoid displaying valuables in public.
Learn which areas are safe for walking, especially after dark.
South Africa is known as the “Rainbow Nation”, with a rich mix of cultures, languages, and traditions.
English is widely spoken, especially in business and education.
Lifestyle is outdoors-oriented — surfing, hiking, safaris, and wine tasting are part of daily life.
South Africans are generally warm and welcoming, and expat communities are active in most cities.
Private healthcare is excellent, but you’ll need medical insurance.
Public healthcare is more limited, so most expats choose private hospitals and clinics.
Many employers include healthcare as part of relocation packages.
Life in South Africa can feel very different to the UK. Things may move more slowly when it comes to bureaucracy and services — patience is essential. At the same time, the work-life balance and outdoor lifestyle are big draws for expats.
Moving to South Africa is a rewarding experience for many UK expats, offering an exciting lifestyle, lower living costs, and incredible scenery. But success depends on planning your relocation carefully — from visas and finances to removals and housing.
At Advance Moves, we make the process easier by helping you ship your belongings securely and affordably.
👉 Get Your Free Quick Quote for Removals to South Africa Today
Email: info@advancemoves.com
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